THE SIXTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GATHERING OF EBENEZER SUNDAY SCHOOL, HASTINGS.
Year succeeds year and marks the flight of time, and, in its flight, leaves the impress of many changes, proving to every thoughtful mind that "here we have no continuing city." But, amid the changes of life, the Lord encourages His people to wait upon Him; and none need to do so more than they who are engaged in the work of spreading His truth, whether among old or young; and when the spirit of prayer is kept alive in their midst, they are not without testimony that "the Lord is with them." These thoughts were in the minds of some who witnessed the assembling of the scholars of this school on December 27th, and they marvelled how any God-fearing man or woman can feel indifferent to the welfare of the young, or look on unmoved as they assemble together. To some of us these gatherings are as "the solemn assembly." We see an eager, expectant throng, seeking for that which shall please them—for the most part, seemingly unconscious, for the time at least, that they have immortal souls that must live in eternal happiness or eternal misery, and, therefore, without a knowledge of their state before God. We see our own children, and yearn over them in prayer before God, and, like Ezra, we would "afflict ourselves before God" to seek a right way for ourselves and our little ones.
The scholars assembled in the chapel, as usual, at half-past two, when the proceedings were opened by a short address from our Pastor and President, Mr. T. Hull. Many friends encouraged us by their presence, though the severe weather considerably influenced their number.
As soon as a hymn had been sung, Mr. Hull read and expounded the first Psalm, showing the character of that man whom God had pronounced blessed. He then earnestly besought the Lord's blessing, and followed it by a few words on the preciousness of truth.
The report was then read by the Secretary, Mr. Ellis, and again proved to be of a most interesting and encouraging character. The steady increase that marked the earlier years of this school has been continuous, the number on the register now being 250, showing an increase of sixteen during the year. The average attendance has been 153 in the morning, and 194 in the afternoon, as compared with 135 and 169 in 1886. The highest single attendance was 223. Two scholars have been lost by death, and one teacher by removal.
We give an extract from the report, as expressing the earnest feeling of those engaged in the work—"To record an increase in numbers is pleasing, as showing outward success; but the success we desire is, that our scholars may be brought to a knowledge of the Lord, that God's truth may be established in their hearts, and that many that meet with us now may bless the Lord for the instrumentality of Ebenezer Sunday School."
The financial statement showed a balance in hand of £5 16s. 7d. This would be to December 1st, the date to which the accounts are made up, and, therefore, leaves the expenses of this day, with the prizes, to be met by the balance in hand, which, of course, is quite inadequate. But the executive feel sure that the same kind thoughtfulness that has put them beyond anxiety in the past will not be wanting in the future. The expenses of the year have been £34 11s. 4d.; the income £32 10s., which, added to the balance brought forward from last year, makes £40 8s.
Several addresses were next given, and listened to with marked attention. The Superintendent, Mr. J. Trimming, spoke of his own feeling in the work, and how earnestly he looked for the blessing of the Lord; the anxiety he felt for the young, and the vast importance of putting a right value on the Word of God.
Mr. R. Funnell, who is in his seventy-eighth year, was most enthusiastically received. He is a pattern of diligence and earnestness in everything connected with the welfare of this school and Church. He very nicely used the illustration of Elijah gathering the people on Mount Carmel, as showing his thoughts on Sunday School work. Though we may build altars, yet, if no living fire comes down from heaven, no saving work will be accomplished.